The
basis of Total Physical Response is seen in every day, in
every classroom, in every school, in every country around
the world. It is based on the idea that the natural response
to understanding a command is a physical response.
A
child will be willing to demonstrate comprehension through
a physical action long before he/she is willing to give
a linguistic response.
The
use of real objects in the classroom and the use of picture
flashcards allows the teacher and children to respond to
language long before they can respond linguistically.
The
secret is simple. Physical responses are very good ways
to respond to language you have understood. Physical actions
bring language to life and make it easier to remember.
Ideas
for TPR activities can be found in many textbooks and teachers
who like TPR techniques can apply them with all teaching
materials. Eko and Tina is a good example of this.
Go to Resources for a sample activity.
Total
Physical Response techniques are very useful to teachers
of young children particularly before they begin to read
and write. But do not think that TPR techniques cannot be
used when teaching adult business people. TPR is useful
for all learners and teachers.
